Dame Maggie Smith was known for her iconic role as the quick-witted Professor McGonagall in Harry Potter from 2001–2011.

The 89-year-old had an extensive career on stage and screen over seven decades and is one of Britain's most recognisable and prolific actresses.

Smith also starred in Downton Abbey: A New Era, A Boy Called Christmas and Sherlock Gnomes to name a few.

Her career began in theatre, but she gained her first Bafta nomination in the 1958 melodrama, Nowhere to Go.

A few years later in 1963, she was offered the role of Desdemona by Laurence Olivier, to star opposite his Othello, at the National Theatre.

Two years later it was made into a film with the original cast, which led to Smith being nominated for an Oscar.

But you might be wondering when and why the award-winning actress was made a dame - let's find out.

Why did Maggie Smith become a Dame?

Smith was appointed a CBE in the 1970 New Year Honours and was made a Dame (DBE) in the 1990 New Year Honours for services to the performing arts.

Her death was announced by her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens today who said Smith died in hospital on Friday morning (September 27).

They said in a statement: “An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end.

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“She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days.

“We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”